Fast and Precise: Linatech’s New FDA-Approved VenusX Linear Accelerator

At this year’s ASTRO conference, Linatech will be showcasing their recently FDA-approved VenusX linear accelerator. Phillip Hirschfelder, Vice President of International Sales at Radiology Oncology Systems (ROS), sat down with Jonathan Yao, Ph.D., CEO of Linatech, to learn more about this innovative machine and its potential impact on cancer treatment.

Phillip Hirschfelder: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Yao. Could you start by telling us about your background and how you came to develop the VenusX?

Dr. Jonathan Yao: I’ve been in the radiation oncology field for many years, starting with my early work designing what eventually became the Monaco treatment planning system. Later, I developed a state-of-the-art, dual layer MLC, which was used in systems like the CyberKnife M6. At Linatech, our mission is to continuously pioneer advanced technologies in the field of radiation therapy, delivering intelligent and integrated solutions to medical institutions worldwide. The VenusX is the embodiment of this mission, combining all the technologies I’ve mastered in my career with our commitment to innovation.

Hirschfelder: What inspired you to develop this machine?

Dr. Yao: I’ve spent my whole career in radiation oncology. I was fortunate to have lived and worked in the U.S., but as a Chinese native, I often traveled back to China to tap into the incredible resources available there. Many companies in our field do manufacturing in China, and we are no different. With the production efficiencies there, I was able to combine that with U.S. technology to create a state-of-the-art linac, the VenusX.

Hirschfelder: Congratulations on receiving FDA approval for the VenusX. Can you tell us about its availability?

Dr. Yao: We’re very excited about receiving FDA approval, and we can now sell this product anywhere in the U.S. and Latin America. We’ve already completed one installation in Colombia and we’re working on another in Mexico. We hope to have at least one installation in the U.S. in the next six months. There are also VenusX systems currently installed and treating patients in China, where the hardware is manufactured.

Hirschfelder: Dr. Yao, what sets the VenusX apart from other linear accelerators in the market?

Dr. Yao: The VenusX offers several unique features. It’s designed for efficiency, treating some cases in under 5 minutes, and more complex cases like brain tumors, cervical cancer, esophageal cancer, and complex breast cancer in under 8 minutes. This efficiency allows for 120-160 patients per day.

We’ve integrated optical surface tracking into our system, combining optical, infrared, Cherenkov, and patient identification technology. This works with our 6 degree of freedom couch. Together, these features allow for very precise patient positioning without the need for additional equipment.

Our patented, orthogonal MLC (multi-leaf collimator) offers a 40cm x 40cm field size, larger than some competitors like the Varian Halcyon’s 28×28. This MLC allows for 5D-tracking, making it suitable for precise treatments like SRS and SBRT, and can perform spatial-fractionated RT.

Hirschfelder: What are some additional features and benefits of the VenusX?

Dr. Yao: Our imaging system uses a dual-cone Cone Beam CT (CBCT) that can capture a 3D image in just 13 seconds. The VenusX also has a built-in beamstopper, which reduces the need for extensive room shielding.

We’ve also integrated cones for specialized treatments, enhancing our precision capabilities. To simplify implementation for clinics, we include the Oncology Information System and Treatment Planning System as part of the package.

Additionally, the VenusX can use an existing base frame, with a module that integrates with base frames, eliminating the need to dig out a new pit. This can significantly simplify the installation process.

Hirschfelder: What are your goals for the upcoming ASTRO conference and beyond?

Dr. Yao: At ASTRO, we’ve expanded our booth size to allow for more dialogue with potential customers. Our goal is to build awareness of our linac in the hopes of securing 5-6 orders and installations in the U.S. in 2025.

Hirschfelder: Thank you, Dr. Yao, for sharing insights about Linatech and the VenusX linear accelerator. We look forward to seeing you at ASTRO.